WASHINGTON — Trumpeting a victory against careless spending, President Barack Obama on Wednesday signed a defense bill that kills some costly weapons projects and expands war spending. In a major civil rights change, the law also makes it a federal hate crime to assault people based on sexual orientation . The $680 billion policy bill doesn't provide any actual dollars, but rather sets guidance that is typically followed by congressional committees that decide appropriations. Obama hailed it

IN TODAY'S AUDIO REPORT: Obama introduces the electric superhighway; Climate legislation hearings (finally) begin in the Senate; Fuel efficiency beats cup holders! ... PLUS : The myth of 'global cooling' ... All that and more in today's Green News Report! Got comments, tips, love letters, hate mail? Drop us a line at GreenNews@BradBlog.com or right here at the comments link below. All GNRs are always archived at GreenNews.BradBlog.com . Listen online here, or Download MP3 (6 mins

“Senate Democrats vowed Monday to include a government-run insurance program as part of their effort to revamp the health care system, reviving an idea that for months has polarized Congress. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., who is working behind the scenes to ready a health care bill for floor debate this fall, said he will advance legislation that includes a ‘public option’ but will give individual states a choice to opt out of the program.” (10/26/09)

Former First Lady Christie Vilsack released a statement today confirming that she will not challenge Senator Chuck Grassley next year. Excerpt: Commiting to a campaign for the US Senate next year requires more than the confidence that I have the right experience, the necessary support and the resources to be successful. It must come with an understanding that it is the best way for me serve our State and my fellow Iowans in the most effective way possible at this time. I have decided not to

By: Nancy Matthis at American Daughter Late Friday, Barack Obama declared the H1N1 virus to be a national emergency . He announced the measure on Saturday. The declaration gives him the following authority : 93rd Congress SENATE Report No. 93-549 1st Session EMERGENCY POWERS STATUTES:…. U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE WASHINGTON: 1973 These proclamations give force to 470 provisions of Federal law. These hundreds of statutes delegate to the President